SAULT SAINT MARIE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Food pantries across the Upper Peninsula are seeing a rise in the number of people utilizing their services, and it stems from inflation.

A 30% increase in services has been reported in some areas.

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With increasing gas and food prices statewide, and no guarantee prices will go down, more families are reaching out for assistance through local food banks within city services and local religious facilities.

Officials say if you can afford to donate to local food banks, it’s now more important than ever to help.